*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*
If this is your first time working with a CPA, don’t worry — most professionals offer a free consultation and will walk you through what to expect. You may be asked to complete an intake form, share financial documents, or set clear goals for your session.
*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*
*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*
*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*
*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*
426 North St
Hyannis, Massachusetts 02601
I wish I had a different review for Doug and his team. we adhered to the schedule and followed his advice but our taxes were not filed on time. The office is almost impossible to get updates from and made basic accounting errors that thankfully we corrected as soon as copies were available for review. Our personal and business taxes had thousands of dollars in late fees and he never submitted letters to IRS that he said he would to resolve it. I hope this saves others from a costly mistake like this.
Horrible business, less than professional owner, Doug presented himself as less than competent and essentially a scam artist. Doug was contacted in November regarding a tax matter. And despite having two in person meetings, including personally dropping off all my taxes documents on the date Doug Selected in February, my taxes were still incomplete the business day before taxes were due. This was quite a shock. This even after he prior two weeks I had called his office three time to actually find out if
Crabtree is an an excellent ethical establishment - from the Front Office marketing greeting and guidance by Mackenzie and Fernanda to the superior accounting expertise of Jennifer, Janet, and their team, owner Doug has integrated a culture of capability, professionalism and ethics in his establishment. It is "always a pleasure'" to do business with Crabtree CPA. ...an MBA Professor
Crabtree CPA & Associates have always provided me with exceptional service. I am not one to normally write reviews but when I saw what some people had said on here I decided to relate my experience. Whenever I have had an issue with Crabtree CPA, which has been extremely rarely and never anything major, they have gone out of their way to make certain I was taken care of and that whatever was concerning me was made right. I would not hesitate to recommend their services and would advise meeting with them as
I have nothing but great things to say about the Crabtree accounting staff. Big two thumbs up for Risa, Wade and Rildo. All of them did a great job when I needed their help. Crabtree provides an excellent service and thier fess are very fair.
Crabtree and associates have been a tremendous help with taxes,payroll,and retirement options.I've been a client for over 20 years and they have helped me with many business decisions .Plus,Doug Crabtree is a great guy!! Wayne Paddock
I love this place they've done my taxes for two years. It is a family owned business and they are very nice people to deal with.
Look for a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license, which ensures they’ve passed rigorous exams and meet state requirements. Check for relevant experience in your industry, additional certifications like CFA or CMA, and membership in professional organizations like the AICPA. Verify their credentials through state licensing boards.
Use online directories like the AICPA, CPAverify, or state CPA societies. Search platforms like Yelp or Google for local CPAs with reviews. Ask for referrals from business associates, friends, or financial advisors. Local chambers of commerce can also provide recommendations.
A CPA is a licensed professional who has passed the CPA exam and met state requirements for education and experience. An accountant may lack this certification and could have varying levels of expertise. For complex tasks like tax audits or financial reporting, a CPA is typically more qualified.
Ask about their experience with your specific financial needs, such as tax preparation, small business accounting, or estate planning. Review their website or LinkedIn for case studies or client testimonials. Inquire about their client base to ensure they handle similar financial situations.
Yes, reviews provide insight into a CPA’s reliability, communication, and performance. Check platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau for client feedback. Look for patterns in reviews, but verify their authenticity, as some may be biased or outdated.
Visit your state’s Board of Accountancy website or use CPAverify.org to check a CPA’s license status. Confirm their license is active and check for any disciplinary actions or complaints. This ensures they’re in good standing and meet professional standards.
Ask about their experience with your financial needs, fee structure, availability, and communication style. Inquire how they handle tax filings, audits, or financial planning. Ask for references or examples of similar work to assess their expertise and fit.
Fees vary based on location, services, and complexity. Basic tax preparation may cost $150-$500, while business accounting or audits can range from $1,000 to $10,000+. Request a detailed fee structure upfront and compare quotes from multiple CPAs.
Yes, many CPAs offer remote services through secure online platforms for document sharing and virtual consultations. Ensure they use encrypted tools for data security. Remote CPAs can be effective if they understand your local tax laws or business regulations.
During consultations, evaluate their ability to explain complex financial concepts clearly. Ask sample questions about taxes or financial strategies and note their responsiveness and clarity. Good communication ensures you understand their advice and fosters a productive relationship.
Beware of CPAs who guarantee specific tax refunds, lack a valid license, or have disciplinary actions on record. Avoid those with poor communication, vague fee structures, or negative reviews highlighting unethical behavior. Always verify their credentials independently.
Large firms offer more resources and specialized teams but may charge higher fees. Solo practitioners often provide personalized service and lower costs but may have limited availability. Choose based on your needs, budget, and preference for personalized attention.
For individuals, annual meetings for tax preparation may suffice. Businesses may need quarterly or monthly check-ins for bookkeeping, tax planning, or financial reporting. Discuss your needs upfront to establish a meeting schedule that aligns with your financial goals.
Yes, many CPAs handle both, but confirm their expertise in both areas. Ask about their experience managing personal taxes and business accounting simultaneously. Ensure they can balance both without compromising attention to your specific financial needs.
Discuss concerns directly with your CPA to resolve issues. If unresolved, check your contract for termination terms. Seek a new CPA by researching reviews, credentials, and referrals. Request your financial records to ensure a smooth transition to a new professional.